Automated scrap wire removal method and apparatus

Abstract

A module for automatic scrap wire isolating and removal is used in systems such as wire insulation lines for extricating scrap wires while minimally interfering with the mechanized wire insulation process. One such module includes a knife assembly with a knife, a scrap tray with a tilt plate for catching the scrap wire below the knife assembly, an accumulator with curved hooks oriented for catching and accumulating, one at a time, the wire and the scrap wire and rotatable for letting go, one at a time, of the wire and scrap wire, so as to allow the knife to completely separate the scrap wire from the wire. A lifting linkage in this module is operatively engaged with the tilt plate tilting it at an angle sufficient for the isolated scrap wire to slide off, whereby the scrap wire is removed.

Description

REFERENCE TO EARLIER APPLICATION[0001]This application claims benefit from and incorporates by reference U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60 / 516,066, filed Oct. 30, 2003, titled “Automated Scrap Wire Removal Method and Apparatus.”BACKGROUND[0002]It is a common practice, in the automotive electric parts field and in the networking infrastructure field, to optimize cable quality by tandem wire drawing and extrusion. For example, local area network (LAN) cables are drawn to size and extruded in tandem with insulation. Then, in the automotive parts field, it is also common to package insulated wire in cardboard barrels or drums for subsequent payout into automotive wire harness assembly equipment.[0003]The amount of wire that can be packaged in the barrel depends on the outside diameter of the wire and the dimensions of the barrel. Typical amounts range from a minimum length of 30,000 ft to a maximum of 120,000 ft. Since a common harness length is anywhere from 3 ft to 20 ft, many ...

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